Tourism spotlight on Breaksea

The region’s tourism industry could be the big winner when helicopter day trips and overnight accommodation is provided on the heritage-listed Breaksea Island.

The unique eco-tourism experience is expected to complement visits to other parts of the south coast and hinterland, adding to the region’s attraction after ongoing work between the Department of Parks and Wildlife and the Great Southern Development Commission.

DPaW policy and tourism manager Rod Quartermaine said they were in the final stages of approving a licence for helicopter company Sky Hook to land on Breaksea Island after expressions of interest were advertised in September.

Mr Quartermaine said the island visit would help create a stronger tourism profile in the region by adding to what was already on offer.

He said the $5.5 million project developing and improving safety at The Gap was one of many in the region which were within an accessible distance of Albany, including the Granite Skywalk in the Porongurups, Tree Top Walk and Mt Frankland Lookout. Packages involving guided trips to Breaksea Island and accommodation promise to become a world-wide tourist attraction.

“There are many lighthouses around the world and people want to stay in them,” Mr Quartermaine said.

“It is a very niche market.”

He said once risk management plans were in place, the island’s natural aspects would make an overnight stay as well as a day trip a major attraction.

DPAW and the GSDC have worked in partnership to preserve the island’s historic buildings to the stage where they could accommodate visitors.

More than $1.3 million in Commonwealth funds helped restore the original lighthouse, two lighthouse-keeper cottages and jetty extensions in 2009, and $400,000 is now needed to get the cottages up to the standard required.

GSDC chief executive Bruce Manning said Breaksea Island was identified as a tourist asset a number of years ago as part of its Maritime Heritage Tourism plans.

Skyhook Helicopters is an Australian-owned and operated helicopter company offering a broad range of helicopter services.

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